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CHAPTER H <br />BACKGROUND 1 <br />in the river decreasing to these levels is remote as long as releases are available from GMR. <br />The peak flow rate required to maintain the 600 cfs flow recommendation is 565 cfs based <br />upon the monthly deliver requirements by the FWS. <br />Based upon the CRWCD computer model, the current operation of the check could deplete <br />or nearly deplete all Western Slope storage in GMR. If this happens, both water users and <br />fish habitat would suffer. Consequently, in a very low water year, it may actually be <br />beneficial from a water supply standpoint to use the check to supply some of GVIC's junior <br />120 cfs water right. This operation would save water in GMR for release later in the year. <br />If the check is used for GVIC's junior water right, the flow in the beginning of the Reach <br />would fall below 582 cfs. Even though this flow rate is below the desired minimum, the <br />saved water could prevent near zero flows in the Reach later in the irrigation season. <br />The OMID would not be willing to operate the check without compensation for lost power <br />revenues and some means to supplement pumping capacity. The frequency at which this <br />situation would occur would have to be evaluated to determine if the costs are justified. The <br />cost of the power lost would not be significant, as the total power generation averages about <br />$17,000/month and even with check operation, some power would be generated. The <br />supplemental pumping capability would result in an annual cost of about $100,000 for a 22 <br />cfs pumping plant operating for 60 days/year. To determine whether this investment is <br />warranted, it would be necessary to perform an analysis of the hydrologic data to determine <br />the frequency of a short water year under the current operation of the check. <br />14 (Revised 3/92)